U.S. Embassy Premieres Armenian Remix of "SMILE" by Black Alley in Tribute to MLK Jr.

In celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy of hope and healing, the U.S. Embassy proudly presents the Armenian remix of “SMILE” by Black Alley, featuring Artyom Manukyan and Miqayel Voskanyan. The music video, now available for viewing, offers a captivating glimpse behind the scenes of the band's tour, showcasing the fusion of African-American and Armenian musical traditions.

Last summer, the U.S. Embassy sponsored the visit of Black Alley to Armenia, marking the introduction of go-go music to the country for the first time. The musical tour, characterized by a harmonious blend of African-American and Armenian musical influences, witnessed extraordinary moments that exemplified the unifying power of music.

Throughout the tour, Black Alley engaged in jam sessions with local artists, creating new creative bonds. The band also conducted masterclasses for aspiring musicians, emphasizing the ability of music to build bridges—a testament to the values of empathy and equality championed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The music video not only features captivating footage from behind the scenes of the tour but also highlights the diverse and inspiring Armenian musicians that Black Alley encountered along the way. This collaboration served as a cultural exchange, bringing together different musical traditions to create a unique and harmonious blend.

The success of Black Alley’s Armenia tour was made possible through the support and collaboration of various friends and partners, including Ordinary Wonder Society, Armenia Vibes, Artyom Manukyan, Miqayel Voskanyan, Meeting Point Studios, Yerevan Wine Days Festival, Garage Club in Gyumri, TUMO Center for Creative Technologies, Nvak Foundation, Emili Aregak Center in Gyumri, Yerevan Komitas State Conservatory, and American Music Abroad.

Credits for the Armenian remix of "Smile" go to Black Alley, featuring Artyom Manukyan and Miqayel Voskanyan. Sound producing was handled by Black Alley and Josh on Bass, sound mixing by Carolyn Malachi, and sound recording by Meeting Point Studios and Narek Barseghyan. The video production was carried out by Armenia Vibes and Armen Petrosyan.